I am considering moving from Dallas to Chicago in a year. What do I need to know and how should I prepare for the city? I have lived and worked in the Dallas area for my entire life and have never really worked in any other cities. I have travelled around but have never been to Chicago. What do I need to know to survive in Chicago? I don't have a college degree but do have 3 years of industry experience with my licenses. Could I get any decent work in Chicago without a degree? I would think it's ultracompetitive in the area. I am a single guy with no wife/kids. Just me moving only. I'm a simple guy who doesn't need a whole lot, but how much should I expect to save up before moving? And how is the cost of living? Just to give an example, you can get a really nicely located apartment in the Dallas area for $500-$600. I'm talking a really upscale apartment complex close to a few jobs and in a nice safe location. Can you get that in Chicago? I'm will to drive up to 20-40 minutes for a job. Are there any major differences between Chicago and Dallas that you know of? I'm just looking for some feedback on why Chicago is a good or bad place to live. Thank you.